The Daily Express says Papadopoulos was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool during the most recent transfer window, with some reports suggesting that a deal had already been agreed subject to a medical as the 21-year-old recovered from a serious knee injury.

But now Arsenal are set to try and beat Liverpool to the defender in January according to reports in Italy.

Arsenal appear to be the new frontrunners, ahead even of Liverpool, with reports suggesting that the Gunners may be willing to meet Schalke's £11m asking price.